Legal practitioner and chief operating officer of UBIIJUS Intelligence, Dr. Blessing Agbomhere, has criticised social media activist Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), over what he described as attempts to exploit Nigeria’s security challenges through calls for protests and anti-government rhetoric.
In a statement personally signed by him, Agbomhere alleged that the activist’s comments and online activities risk undermining public confidence in government institutions at a time when national unity is required to address insecurity.
He argued that while insecurity remains a major concern in the country, the solution does not lie in protests or public agitation against authorities, but in stronger cooperation between citizens and security agencies.
“It deeply upsets me seeing some gullible, unpatriotic and ill-wishing Nigerians, both at home and abroad, celebrating VeryDarkMan… Calling for protests against insecurity or against the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is not patriotism; it is an act capable of encouraging disorder and undermining national stability,” Agbomhere said.
He attributed Nigeria’s insecurity to multiple factors, including poverty, unemployment, weak law enforcement, drug abuse, and communal conflicts, stressing that addressing them requires collective effort rather than political confrontation.
Agbomhere commended the country’s security agencies, including the Armed Forces, Police, DSS, NSCDC, FRSC, and others, for their efforts in combating insecurity despite operational challenges.
“While significant challenges remain, Nigerians must acknowledge the dedication and sacrifices of the men and women who put their lives on the line daily in service to our nation,” he said.
He emphasised that security is a shared responsibility and called on citizens to provide timely intelligence to security agencies to aid crime prevention.
According to him, community vigilance remains one of the most effective tools for tackling insecurity, citing examples from advanced democracies where citizens actively support law enforcement.
He also alleged that some political actors may be attempting to exploit insecurity for partisan advantage ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that such actions could heighten national tension.
While acknowledging citizens’ constitutional right to freedom of expression, Agbomhere urged Nigerians to exercise such rights responsibly in a manner that promotes peace and unity.
He called on government institutions and security agencies to remain committed to protecting lives and ensuring that perpetrators of crimes are brought to justice.
“Nigeria will overcome its current security challenges if citizens, communities and government institutions work together in the national interest,” he said.
